Thousands of college students ready for move in week

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ALLENDALE, Mich.-- Thousands of students are making the transition from home to campus life as universities welcome students during Move-In week.

The process has already started in Allendale, where Grand Valley State University is seeing a record number, more than 6,000 students, moving in this week.

Open just in time, is Kleiner Commons, a community place for students. It was renovated and doubled in size over the summer.

Move-in week is filled with optimism and a little bit of stress. GVSU is trying to make the process go as smoothly as possible, with campus security guards guiding the way, and as many as 500 volunteers helping students unpack.

"Roughly 80% of freshman feel homesick at some point so we have a wonderful student staff group called Resident Assistants on each floor, and what they do is get students connected to their roommate, connected to their floor, and their building," explained Mike Stoll, director of GVSU's living center.

Meantime in Kalamazoo, crews at Western Michigan University are working around the clock to get dorms ready for students this weekend.

Moving can be overwhelming but campus staff reminds everyone to enjoy the process.

"It can be an emotional time for parents, but obviously take the time to enjoy the day with your son or daughter, say the goodbye, and trust that our staff will keep them in good hands and get them set up," said Stoll.

Click here for a list of events happening at Grand Valley State University.

Click here for a list of events happening during move-in week at Wester Michigan University.